Author
 |
POINAR JR, GEORGE - OREGON STATE, CORVALLIS |
|
Dowd, Patrick |
|
Submitted to: Journal of Nematology
Publication Type: Peer Reviewed Journal Publication Acceptance Date: 3/22/1996 Publication Date: N/A Citation: N/A Interpretive Summary: Sap beetles are important pests because they damage many fruit and vegetable crops and also carry plant diseases. Identifying natural control agents is an important strategy for managing these insects. A species of nematode parasitizing these insects was found to be new to science. The species of nematode has now been described and named, and reference specimens deposited. It is now possible to distinguish this species of nematode from other species. This information is useful in determining distribution or success of establishment of the nematode in new areas. Technical Abstract: Psammomermis nitiduesis n.sp. (Nematoda: Mermithidae) is described from the following three species of sap beetles, Carpophilus lugubris Murray, Carpophilus antiquus Melsh and Colopterus truncatus (Randall) (Coleoptera: Nitidulidae) from Mason County, Illinois. This mermithid differs from previously described members of the genus by the shape of the amphids and their association with the amphidial glands, the length, form and curvature of the spicules and the shape of the vagina vera and vagina uterina. A key to the recognized species of Psammomermis is provided. This mermithid causes up to 80% parasitism and death of the dusky sap beetle (C. lugubris), an important vector of mycotoxigenic fungi. Investigations are under way to determine the possibility of utilizing this mermithid for the biological control of this insect pest. |
